Although renovation may seem like a difficult and time-consuming process, you should make it count – it’ll be worth it once you see the fruits of your labor. Like all renovations, it comes with a plan, budget and all other precautions necessary in case something unexpected occurs. However, many fail to foresee the impact on the environment or even consider ways to make their home more sustainable. If you’ve decided not to forget about the environment while planning for your renovation, we’re here to give you some tips on how to keep your renovation environmentally friendly.
Supplies
If you have to purchase supplies, try to do it locally. By doing so, you will save money on gas and not to mention, create less greenhouse gas. Go greener or at least greenish by purchasing supplies mentioned below:
- Low VOC or VOC-free paint. VOC stands for “volatile organic compounds” and it provokes long-term health effects, which aren’t good.
- Instead of opting for traditional flooring, try using bamboo. It’s durable and moisture resistant. It grows faster than wood and uses less pesticides which is environmentally friendly. You get to save forests while walking on chick flooring, too!
- You can reduce waste by using recycled materials, like wood and metal. A great perk that comes with that is that it gives your home a unique and contemporary look.
- Recycled glass. There are many home depots that sell bio-glass that looks like new windows but are definitely environmentally friendly. They’re an excellent addition to a kitchen or a bedroom as they let in natural light and brighten up the lace.
Construction work
If you plan on hiring a contractor, hire an eco-friendly one, but avoid green washing companies like the plague. Many businesses today just slap on “green” and “eco-friendly” on their name, when in fact they don’t do anything helpful to the environment.
Do your research, look at the other projects and certifications and find out what they do to be considered green. A contractor whose eco-friendly commitments line up with the goals of your renovation is your best pick.
After the construction is over it’s important to clean up any waste and debris left behind. Not cleaning up creates pollution and can contaminate waterways. The easiest and fastest way to do that would be to hire Rubbish Collection company, as they can load, transport, sort and recycle all your waste, so you won’t have to worry about that and focus on more important tasks.
Going all the way
If you want to go green, go all the way, from inside out. Here are some things to take into consideration when renovating your home entirely:
- By planting a tree or shrubs around your house, you can significantly reduce the need for air conditioning or heating, which automatically means saving energy.
- Move your eavestroughs to go in the direction of your garden, so you will create an economic and eco-friendly watering option.
- Install solar panels and rainwater tanks. Not only will you help the environment through saving energy, but you will notice your electricity bills becoming less expensive as well. They can be costly at the beginning, but you will save money in the long term.
- Install a low-flow toilet – if you want to help decrease water shortage. It’s best to invest in a low-flow toilet to conserve water. You will still be able to flush with ease and enjoy the user-friendliness of these types of toilets.
- If you’re planning to replace some major appliances, focus on those that help save energy. Investing in energy efficient white goods will go a long way to saving you money in the longer term.
- By purchasing antique and secondhand items in good condition, you will give a rustic and cute look to your home, not to mention save a ton of money.
- Bring indoor plants – they help reduce stress and pollution inside the home. Not only do they look nice, they also provide purified oxygen for your home.
- Replace all light bulbs with LED lights. Also, instead of a regular on and off switch look into light dimmers and motion detectors to help save energy.
- Instead of using air conditioning the whole summer, opt for fans instead. They use less energy and help circulate the air. Save air-conditioning for the days that you really need it.
Final thoughts
If you want to renovate your home, but also stay true to your green promises, follow the aforementioned tips, and you’ll have an easy and smooth renovation. These also don’t apply only to home – they can work in an office, work space or any other project, too.
